The
Archer is a new wheeled self-propelled howitzer 155mm designed and manufactured
by the join Company Bofors and BAE Systems. The first technical studies
of the Archer were launched in 1995. Under contract to the Swedish Defence
Materiel Administration (FMV), the now BAE Systems Global Combat Systems
(previously BAE Systems Bofors) fitted a 155 mm FH-77 artillery system
on the rear of a modified VME A25C (6 × 6) all-terrain Volvo truck
chassis. The first driving and firing rig was completed late in 1995
and, following company trials, was delivered to the Swedish Army for
six months of troop trials. The first operational systems are expected
to be delivered in October 2011 and production will continue over the
following two years.

Full
technical information about Archer FH77 BW L52 to Issue 12 of Army Recognition

The main
weapon is the 155mm 52-calibre gun. The gun uses the proven
design of the cradle and recoil system from the current generation
FH 77B towed field howitzer. For his self-protection the wheeled
self-propelled howitzer Archer is armed with remote weapon
system, comprising a day and night sight with a 7.62mm general-purpose
machine gun, is installed on the roof of the cab.

Design
and protection

The
system is operated by three or four crew members who are protected
in combat by being under armour. The armoured platform provides
protection against 7.62mm rounds, armour penetration rounds,
6kg mines (level 2 STANAG 4569) . The cab provides the crew
with a protected work environment ensuring extreme endurance
during severe circumstances. The protection includes ballistic
protection, mine protection, NBC protection, fire protection
and noise protection.

Mobility

The
vehicle is a commercial Volvo articulated hauler (dumper) adapted
to carry the artillery gun. The basic philosophy is to retain
the vehicle’s standard design as much as possible and
avoid special solutions. The 155 mm gun is mounted at the rear
of the truck chassis of the Volvo A30D 6x6. The Archer can be
run at a maximum road speed of 70 km/h with a maximum range
of 500 km.

Accessories

The
main weapon is equipped with a fire control system, laying system
and inertial navigation and a muzzle velocity radar. Data from
the radar is downloaded to the onboard computerised fire control
system. Emergency driving equipment (Hutchinson AMVFI) makes
it possible to drive with all wheels punctured. It also provides
greater protection if the vehicle hits a blast-pressure mine.